New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe - Lightweight

In this review the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe is evaluated for everyday runners and walkers who want plush cushioning without extra weight. The bottom line: this shoe delivers a noticeably soft ride thanks to the Fresh Foam midsole while remaining light enough for long walks or daily errands. It balances comfort and support with a breathable knit upper and an integrated rubber outsole that keeps the underfoot feeling smooth and protected.

Key Features

• Fresh Foam midsole: Precision engineered with approximately 3% bio-based content to provide an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride that reduces impact on long outings.
• Bio-based materials: A portion of the midsole foam is made from renewable resources, offering a small but meaningful reduction in carbon footprint.
• Precision-engineered knit upper: Designed for targeted ventilation and a comfortable feel that adapts to foot movement while keeping the shoe breathable.
• No-sew upper construction: Provides a sleek fit and minimizes irritation from seams during extended wear.
• Integrated rubber outsole: Enhances underfoot comfort and durability so the shoe holds up to miles on pavement and frequent daily use.
• 8 mm drop: Offers a balanced heel-to-toe offset suitable for neutral runners, stated as approximate due to manufacturing variances.

Who It's For

The Fresh Foam 680 V8 is best for women who need a comfortable, cushioned daily trainer for road running, long walks, or general active wear. It particularly suits runners who value a soft midsole and a roomy toe box, and those with mild flat feet who benefit from steady arch support reported by other users.

It is less appropriate for competitive racers seeking a maximal speed shoe or for trail runners who need aggressive grip and rugged protection. If you require heavy motion control or a very high stack for marathon racing, consider a different model built specifically for those purposes.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, ultra-cushioned ride from the Fresh Foam midsole for long walks and runs.
• Lightweight construction that reduces fatigue over extended wear.
• Breathable knit upper with no-sew construction for a smooth, irritation-free fit.
• Integrated rubber outsole gives dependable underfoot comfort and durability.

Cons

• The 8 mm drop is approximate and may feel different to runners used to a precise measurement.
• Not designed for off-road use or aggressive stability needs.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 is a solid choice for runners and walkers who prioritize soft cushioning and everyday comfort without added weight. It offers good support, a breathable knit fit, and responsible use of bio-based midsole content, making it a practical, value-oriented trainer for regular use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long walks?
Yes. Customers report excellent cushioning and comfort for long walks, and the Fresh Foam midsole helps absorb impact over distance.

Do they run true to size?
The knit upper and roomy toe box provide a forgiving fit, and most wearers find them true to size while offering a comfortable wide feel.

Are these suitable for road running?
They are designed for road running and everyday pavement use, with an integrated rubber outsole for reliable underfoot comfort.